The CPM and the CPI have asked the Centre to “work closely with major regional powers” on Afghanistan and desist from “blindly following the US”.

“Major regional powers” usually mean Russia, China and Iran.

“The United States has suffered a humiliating defeat in Afghanistan. Twenty years after the toppling of the Taliban regime, the Taliban are back in power....,” the Left parties have said.

They added that the “the Afghan policy of the Indian government had been to blindly follow the Americans. This had resulted in its isolation in the region and hence, it is left with few options...”.

“India must work closely with major regional powers to see that the Afghan people are able to live in a peaceful and stable environment. The Indian government should immediately work towards the safe evacuation of all stranded Indian citizens in Afghanistan,” the Left parties said.